Spring is one of the most important times of the year for your pet’s health. As Calgary transitions from winter to warmer months, seasonal risks change and new preventive measures come into play. At NorthWest Animal Hospital in Carrington, we recommend scheduling a spring wellness exam for your dog or cat to ensure they are protected and up to date heading into the active season ahead.
Why Spring Is a Key Time for Preventive Care
Winter in Calgary means limited outdoor exposure for most pets, but spring brings increased activity, longer walks, and more time in parks and yards. This shift also brings exposure to ticks, fleas, mosquitoes (which carry heartworm), and other seasonal parasites. A spring wellness visit allows your veterinarian to assess your pet’s overall health, update vaccinations, and start or renew parasite prevention programs before the risk window opens.
Vaccinations – Keeping Protection Current
Core vaccinations for dogs in Alberta include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. For cats, core vaccines include rabies, feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, and herpesvirus. Depending on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors – such as time spent outdoors, boarding, or contact with other animals – your veterinarian may also recommend non-core vaccines like leptospirosis, Bordetella (kennel cough), or feline leukaemia virus. A spring appointment is an excellent time to review your pet’s vaccination schedule and fill any gaps.
Parasite Prevention – Ticks, Fleas, and Heartworm
Alberta’s tick population has been growing, and the season starts earlier than many pet owners expect. Flea activity also increases as temperatures warm. For dogs, heartworm prevention is recommended from April through November in the Calgary region, as mosquitoes carrying the parasite become active during these months. Cats can also benefit from parasite prevention products, even if they are indoor-only, as fleas and mosquitoes can enter the home. Our team at NorthWest Animal Hospital can recommend the right combination of products for your pet’s needs and lifestyle.
Dental Health Check
Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in adult dogs and cats, and it often goes unnoticed until it causes significant discomfort. A spring wellness exam includes an oral health assessment where Dr. Bath can evaluate your pet’s teeth and gums for signs of tartar buildup, gingivitis, or tooth resorption. Early detection of dental problems allows for less invasive and less costly treatment. NorthWest Animal Hospital offers professional dental cleaning services with full anaesthetic monitoring.
Weight and Nutrition Assessment
It is common for pets to gain a little extra weight over the winter months when activity levels are lower. Carrying excess weight puts additional stress on joints, the heart, and other organs. During a spring wellness visit, your veterinarian will assess your pet’s body condition score and discuss any dietary adjustments that may be helpful. We offer nutrition counselling tailored to your pet’s age, breed, and activity level, helping you set a plan for healthy weight management as the weather improves.
Senior Pet Considerations
For dogs and cats aged seven years and older, spring is an especially important time for a comprehensive health review. Senior pets benefit from bloodwork panels that assess kidney function, liver health, thyroid levels, and blood sugar. These baseline values help detect age-related conditions early, when they are most manageable. Dr. Bath specialises in chronic disease management and can create a tailored wellness plan for your senior pet. We recommend twice-yearly visits for senior patients to stay ahead of any developing issues.
Your Spring Wellness Checklist
Before summer arrives, make sure your pet’s wellness plan includes a comprehensive physical exam, updated vaccinations, a current parasite prevention plan (ticks, fleas, heartworm), a dental health assessment, a weight and nutrition review, and updated microchip contact information. NorthWest Animal Hospital is open seven days a week, making it easy to fit a spring check-up into your schedule.
| Ready to book your pet’s spring wellness visit? Call NorthWest Animal Hospital at (403) 930-3500. Open 7 days a week in Carrington, NW Calgary – serving Evanston, Livingston, Kincora, and Sage Hill. |
| FAQ |
Q: When should I start heartworm prevention for my dog in Calgary?
A: Heartworm prevention is recommended from April through November in the Calgary region. Starting in April ensures your dog is protected before mosquito activity increases in late spring and summer.
Q: Do indoor cats need parasite prevention in spring?
A: Yes. Fleas and mosquitoes can enter your home through open windows and doors, putting indoor cats at risk. A preventive product recommended by your veterinarian provides an additional layer of protection.
Q: How often should senior pets see the veterinarian?
A: Senior dogs and cats (generally seven years and older) benefit from twice-yearly wellness exams and bloodwork. This allows your veterinarian to detect age-related changes early and adjust care plans accordingly.
| This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet’s health. If you have concerns, contact NorthWest Animal Hospital at (403) 930-3500. |